Queer history is lived, messy, joyful, political, everyday, and still unfolding. Yet much of our history goes unrecorded. That’s why we’re building an inclusive LGBTQIA+ archive rooted in Brighton & Hove. 

The Queer Heritage South archive is shaped by the people who live, love, organise, and care in this city. But we can’t build it without you! 

We need your help to grow our collections and create a lasting record of LGBTQIA+ life in our region, one that reflects everyday experiences as well as moments of joy, resistance, and creativity.

Our new regular collecting sessions are kicking off on the 15th March 2026. They offer a chance to find out more about the archive, and be supported in adding to our collection. Come along to digitise and donate a queer memory that matters to you.

This might be:

• a poster from a queer gig or club night
• photographs of Pride marches 
• a protest placard
• something personal with an important story to tell 

These sessions are open to everyone. Alongside bringing something to help grow our inclusive digital archive, you can volunteer to support cataloging and care of the archive, or simply come along to meet others and learn a bit more about Queer Heritage South. 

Find out more about our upcoming free and open-to-all Community Collective sessions here. 

Highlights from past collecting sessions

Queer history isn’t only about the distant past, it’s also what’s happening now. These recent additions to our archive are described in the words of the people who donated them, and show how queer life continues to unfold in Brighton: 

Beach Lesbians 

“I was working as a lifeguard for Brighton beach on Pride 2024 to save the gays from drowning. The night before I stayed up until 1am cutting up my uniform and sewing together a pride uniform to wear on top of the lifeguard tower opposite St James street party. This was also a celebration of my first pride in Brighton, and during my lunch break I ran through the streets to catch the last of the parade, joined hand in hand by my lunch break date” 

Fruit Loops: An exhibition of Queer and Neurodivergent Art 

“Images relating to the very first art exhibition at the Ledward Centre (LGBT+ community centre) in Brighton, from 17th August to 28th September 2023. The exhibition featured the work of six queer neurodivergent artists: Mungo Austin, Aoife Baxendale, Sebastian Rowlands, Krisas Daubaras, Danny Good, and Laine Dunne. It was curated by Danny Good and Meg Brosnan. The exhibition wanted to draw attention to the frequent exclusion of queer neurodivergent people from LGBT+ spaces, as well as celebrating our experiences.”